Apple's iPhone 5 rumored with metal chassis, less than 4-inch screen

Apple's next-generation iPhone will ditch the glass back of the iPhone 4 for a metal chassis, but its screen size will be smaller than 4 inches, according to the latest rumor.

Citing sources in Apple's overseas supply chain, DigiTimes reported on Monday that the so-called "iPhone 5" will "not have many differences" when compared to the current-generation iPhone 4. The largest difference will be a metal chassis on the back, replacing the reinforced glass found on the iPhone 4.

"The sources added that the iPhone 5 will adopt a 3.5- to 3.7-inch panel with a design to allow the bezel of the panel to become thinner and make the screen look larger," the report said.

The report also dispelled what was clearly a fake video that has circulated on the Internet, claiming to show a "leaked" website from Switzerland for the iPhone 5. To date, the bogus video has received more than 1.8 million views on YouTube.

Rumors surrounding Apple's next-generation iPhone have been have provided conflicting reports, creating confusion as to whether Apple's next handset will sport an all-new design, or have an appearance similar to the iPhone 4. A report in March from China Times was the first indication that the so-called "iPhone 5" will allegedly have a metal chassis, though that report suggested the handset will sport a 4-inch screen.

Last week, Reuters chimed in, claiming the next-generation iPhone will look largely the same as the iPhone 4. That report was in contrast with other rumors and even third-party cases suggesting the next iPhone could have angled sides and a flat back, with a design similar to the iPad 2.

Monday's report may also conflict with a handful of component leaks from last week. Various pictures showed components for a prototype iPhone with what appears to be a white glass back, similar to that of the iPhone 4. But some rumors have claimed that Apple plans to release a so-called "iPhone 4S" with an improved antenna that will be sold as a low-end handset, in addition to a redesigned fifth-generation iPhone.

I'd prefer the screen actually be bigger (like the Sharp 4.5" 720p screen from Nexus Prime). These days 3.5" is low to middle end in terms of screen size.

That being said, rumors in about every direction have been released, so I won't believe anything until it shows up on Apple's site.

If they release a 4.5 or 4.3 screen iPhone 5 I might just have to get one...... As it is my wife and sons will want the iPhone 5 when it becomes available next month. They have been patiently waiting and using their 3GS. It will be very interesting to see if it lives up to all the hype.

I just bought an out of contract iPhone 4 to replace a dying iPhone 3GS. This phone has an Applecare for another 1 1/2 years, so I am not in any hurry to renew my contract (expired yesterday!!!) If the rumor is true and Apple doesn't upgrade to at least a 4 inch screen I will pass on this iteration of iPhone.

I am still waiting for an iPod Touch with a data plan (similar to the iPad). I don't need a phone often, but instead just need the data. Paying the extra $$$ for minutes even as an add-a-phone on my wife's account is still wasting $28.00 a month versus just a pure data plan. I know some folks think the idea is silly, but Apple would do well to add wireless 3G to the next iPod Touch. There are so many people who don't have iPhones and/or don't want a minutes plan. This would be perfect for many kids and young adults. Use a dedicated Skype number on 3G or wifi and use Google Voice for SMS. Plus this would make a great gateway product to set up future adults with iPhones.

A guy can dream...Most likely the iPod Touch will just get another incremental update. Maybe more storage so as to replace the iPod Classic...

I'd prefer the screen actually be bigger (like the Sharp 4.5" 720p screen from Nexus Prime). These days 3.5" is low to middle end in terms of screen size.

That being said, rumors in about every direction have been released, so I won't believe anything until it shows up on Apple's site.

To each his own...if that was the iPhone's screen size I'd be most definitely on the "no thanks" list.

Anyone have a breakdown of smartphone sales by screen size? People on these rumor/tech fan websites are probably biased towards larger screens. But I can't help but think that if that was the iPhone's screen size Apple would lose more sales than they'd gain. Gain a small number of tech fan sales, but lose a larger number of "average joe" sales. And I don't see them making iPhones with two drastically different screen sizes.

If Apple decides to make a mid-sized iOS device, I suspect it will be the iPod touch, which doesn't have quite the same portability requirements that a cell phone would have.